Flood Insurance
Residential Flood
Did you know that just a few inches of water from a flood can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage? We saw it first hand from the recent storms – Irene and Sandy. From 2007 to 2011, the average residential flood claim was almost $30,000.
Flood insurance is the best way to protect yourself and your family from suffering a monumental financial loss.
A. Everyone’s home is in a flood zone, some are just a higher risk than others. Nearly 20% of flood claims come from moderate-to-low risk areas. If you live in an area with new land development you can now be at an increased risk for flooding.
A. You don’t need to live anywhere near the coast. A flood can be caused by “an unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source” – so many floods have been caused by heavy rain storms.
A. Flood insurance does not cover this type of water back up. Sump pump failure can be covered under your homeowners policy.
A. Coverage is very limited in basements. Items that run the house are covered such as hot water heaters, furnaces and air conditioners. Your personal property is only covered from the first floor and above.
A. The cost of flood insurance varies from house to house based on a number of factors. A home in a moderate-to-low-risk zone (X) with $250,000 of dwelling coverage and a $2000 deductible, can be purchased for less than $400 a year.